Tarkus
Emerson, Lake & Palmer · 1971
38 min · 13 tracks · progressive rock · psychedelic rock · art rock
A sprawling odyssey of intricate melodies and dynamic shifts, merging rock with classical and jazz influences.
Why this album works
- Best for
- dynamic progression with resolution wave-like pacing that captivates intricate melodies unfold gradually
- Context
- Released on June 14, 1971, 'Tarkus' marks Emerson, Lake & Palmer's second album, following their self-titled debut in 1970. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their reputation as pioneers of progressive rock, pushing the boundaries of composition and instrumentation.
- If you like
- progressive rock, psychedelic rock, art rock
- If this clicks, go next to
- Trilogy — Continues the complex arrangements and rich soundscapes established in Tarkus.
Tarkus is an album by Emerson, Lake & Palmer, released in 1971. A sprawling odyssey of intricate melodies and dynamic shifts, merging rock with classical and jazz influences. 'Tarkus' is notable for its ambitious structure, featuring a side-long suite that showcases the band's virtuosity and creativity. It reached No. 1 in the UK charts and was pivotal in establishing ELP as a leading force in the burgeoning progressive rock scene. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Tarkus sound like?
A sprawling odyssey of intricate melodies and dynamic shifts, merging rock with classical and jazz influences. Rooted in progressive rock and psychedelic rock. Start with "Eruption".
Is Tarkus a good place to start with Emerson, Lake & Palmer?
Yes, Tarkus is recommended as a starting point for new Emerson, Lake & Palmer listeners. A sprawling odyssey of intricate melodies and dynamic shifts, merging rock with classical and jazz influences. Released on June 14, 1971, 'Tarkus' marks Emerson, Lake & Palmer's second album, following their self-titled debut in 1970. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their reputation as pioneers of progressive rock, pushing the boundaries of composition and instrumentation.
Who is Tarkus for?
Tarkus works well if you're into dynamic progression with resolution, wave-like pacing that captivates and intricate melodies unfold gradually.
How many songs are on Tarkus?
Tarkus has 13 tracks, running approximately 38 minutes.
Tracklist
New here? Start with Eruption.
- 1 Eruption Start here 2:43
- 2 Stones of Years 3:44
- 3 Iconoclast 1:15
- 4 Mass 3:12
- 5 Manticore 1:52
- 6 Battlefield 3:51
- 7 Aquatarkus Standout 4:04
- 8 Jeremy Bender 1:50
- 9 Bitches Crystal Standout 3:58
- 10 The Only Way 3:48
- 11 Infinite Space (Conclusion) 3:20
- 12 A Time and a Place 3:01
- 13 Are You Ready Eddy? 2:09
Release Date
June 14, 1971
Artist Origin
England
Runtime
38 min 53 sec
Learn More
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.
